The Ultimate Guide To Buying Australian Beer

Australia has a rich history of beer brewing and consumption, dating back to the early days of British colonisation. While Foster's is a well-known Australian beer abroad, it is not as popular within the country. Australians are the fourth biggest consumers of beer globally, and their preferences vary from mass-produced lagers to craft beers from microbreweries. The most popular beer in Australia is XXXX Gold, followed by VB, with Tooheys also making the list. Australians take their beer seriously, and with the early working day and hot temperatures, a cold beer after work is a common ritual. With over 1,000 beers available online and new beers arriving weekly, there is no shortage of options for those looking to buy Australian beer.

Where to buy Australian beer

If you're looking to buy Australian beer, there are a few online options available to you. Beer Cartel, for instance, claims to be Australia's #1 online craft beer store, with over 1,000 Australian and international craft beers in stock and new beers arriving weekly. They offer a range of mixed packs, including an Australian Oktoberfest Mixed 6 Pack, and also stock alcohol-free options.

Total Wine & More is another online option, where you can find Australian beers such as Coopers Sparkling Ale and Wildflower Amber.

If you're looking to buy in person, you could try your local liquor store or supermarket, which may stock Australian beers. You could also try specialist beer or liquor stores, which are likely to have a wider range of options.

Australian beer glass sizes

Australia has a wide range of beer glass sizes, and while the country shifted to the metric system in 1970, beer measurements have remained inconsistent. Here is a comprehensive guide to Australian beer glass sizes:

Schooner Size – 425 ml

The schooner is one of Australia's most popular beer glass sizes, typically holding 425 millilitres (or 15 fluid ounces) of beer. It is commonly used in New South Wales and Queensland and is perfect for those who want to enjoy a refreshing beer without committing to a whole pint. The schooner is considered a universal glass size in most parts of the country, except in South Australia, where it is referred to as a pint.

Pint Size – 570 ml

The pint is the heavyweight of Australian beer glasses, with a capacity of 570 millilitres (or 20 fluid ounces). It is a metric conversion of 20 imperial fluid ounces and is the older brother to the more popular schooner size. The pint is one of the few beer sizes where South Australia aligns with the rest of the country, referring to it as an imperial pint. Two types of pint glasses are commonly used: the Imperial Pint, the traditional British pint glass holding 568 millilitres, and the American Pint, holding 473 millilitres with a more tapered top.

Pony Size – 140 ml

The pony is the smallest of the conventional beer sizes, found throughout most of mainland Australia. It holds around 140 millilitres (or 5 fluid ounces) and is typically used for beer samples in tastings or bars for customers who want to try different beers without committing to a full serving.

Pot/Middy Size – 285 ml

The pot or middy is a standard beer size in Victoria, also known as a 'handle' in the Northern Territory, a 'seven' in Tasmania, and a 'schooner' in South Australia. It typically holds 285 millilitres (or 10 fluid ounces) and is perfect for those who want to savour their beer or sample a variety of beers.

Jug Size – 1,140 ml

The jug is a popular choice for groups, holding 1,140 millilitres (or 40 fluid ounces). It is a great option for those looking for a cheap night out, as it is available nationwide and provides a generous serving of beer.

Honourable Mentions

Some other unique beer glass sizes in Australia include:

• Butcher Size – 200 ml (South Australia)
• Small Beer Size – 115 ml (Tasmania)
• Bobbie/Bobby Size – 170 ml (Western Australia)

Beer Glass Types

In addition to the various sizes, Australia also has several types of beer glasses, each designed to enhance the drinking experience for specific beer styles:

• Tulip glasses: These have a unique shape with a bulbous body and flared lip to enhance the aroma and taste of the beer.
• Snifter glasses: These glasses have a wide bowl and a bulbous shape, ideal for swirling and warming the beer while concentrating its aromas.
• Weizen glasses: Tall, thin glasses perfect for showcasing the hazy appearance of wheat beer.
• Beer mugs: Classic, sturdy, and heavy glassware with a handle to keep the beer cold.
• Stemmed glasses: Elegant glassware associated with Belgian-style beers, showcasing the unique flavours and aromas of complex, high-alcohol beers.

Australian beer slang

Drinking beer is a big part of Australian life and culture. Each state has its dominant brewery, and while beers from one state are usually available in others, there are some differences in how to order a beer in each.

Greeting the Bartender

When you go to a bar in Australia, the bartender might ask, "Are you right, mate?" This is a friendly greeting, and you don't need to answer it literally. You can respond with your order, for example, "Schooner of Vic Bitter, mate."

Glass Sizes

There are two basic beer sizes in Australia: large (425ml/15 fl. oz.) and small (285ml/10 fl. oz.). However, these sizes vary across states and territories. For example, in Victoria and South Australia, a large beer is called a "pint," while in all other states, it's called a "schooner."

The smaller-sized beer has even more variation. In New South Wales, the Australian Capital Territory, and Western Australia, it's called a "middy." In Victoria and Queensland, it's a "pot"; in Tasmania, a "ten"; in the Northern Territory, a "handle"; and in South Australia, a "schooner."

Round of Drinks

When drinking with a group, it's customary to buy a round of drinks, called a "shout." You can indicate it's your turn to buy by saying, "My shout!" It's considered rude to disappear when it's your turn or to order something more expensive than what others are drinking.

Beer Names

Beer itself has many slang names in Australia. It's often called a "cold one," a "bevvie," a "frostie," a "coldie," or "liquid amber." Beer is also known as "liquid gold" or "amber nectar."

Drunkenness

If you drink too much beer, you'll get drunk, and there are many slang terms for this state. You might say you're "pissed," "boozed," "blotto," "off your face," or "shit-faced." If you drink a lot, you might be called a "boozer artist" or a "piss artist."

Beer Containers

Beer is often sold in "tinnies" (cans) or "stubbies" (small glass bottles). A carton of 24 bottles or cans is called a "slab," and a six-pack is a "six-pack."

Drinking Customs

When you go to the pub with friends, you usually take turns buying rounds of drinks. This is called a "shout." If your glass is empty, your "tide has gone out," and it's time for another beer. If you're drinking slowly, you're "sitting on your beer." If you're drinking alone, you're "drinking with the flies."

Beer Storage

To keep your beer cold, you can use an "esky," an insulated container where you store the beer with ice. To keep individual beers cold, use a "stubbie-holder," a polystyrene insulated holder for a single beer.

Popular Australian beers

Australia has a thriving beer culture, with a mix of large breweries and smaller craft breweries offering a wide range of beer options. Here's a guide to some of the most popular Australian beers:

Victoria Bitter (VB)

VB, also known as "Very Best," "Vitamin B," or "Victory Beer" by fans, is one of Australia's most iconic beers. It has a strong following in Melbourne and across Victoria. The beer's popularity is partly due to its catchy marketing, including the well-known "hard-earned thirst" jingle that has been around since 1968. VB has also earned some less flattering nicknames, with "Vomit Bomb" being one of the more polite ones.

Tooheys

Tooheys is a historic Sydney beer brand founded by Irish immigrants, the Tooheys Brothers, in 1869. It continues to brew in the suburb of Lidcombe, producing a range of beers, including the easy-drinking lager Tooheys New, the dark ale Tooheys Old, and the crisp Tooheys Extra Dry. Tooheys has also gained recognition for its classic advertisements.

XXXX (Four Ex)

XXXX is particularly popular in Queensland, where it is as iconic as mangos, Powderfinger, and Wally Lewis. The name is often joked about, with the quip "Why do Queenslanders call their beer XXXX? Because they can't spell beer." Castlemaine's brewery in Milton has been brewing XXXX for almost a century. The mid-strength XXXX Gold is one of Australia's most popular beers, not just in Queensland but across the country.

Coopers

Coopers is the largest locally owned brewery in Australia, with the company still primarily controlled by the Coopers family. They produce a variety of beers, notably the green-capped pale ale, and they also offer Australia's best home-brewing equipment. Coopers is the only independent brewery among Australia's largest beer brands, and their beers are widely available, punching above their weight against the internationally owned competition.

James Boag's

James Boag's is a Launceston-based brewery that produces a signature premium lager. It is the oldest continuously operating brewery in Australia, established in Hobart at the foot of Mount Wellington in 1824. James Boag's is a preferred beer in northern Tasmania and is known for its smooth, easy-drinking lager.

Carlton Draught

Carlton Draught is another mega-popular Aussie lager, with a strong following across the country. Its popularity surged in the last decade, thanks to a series of genius advertising campaigns, including the viral "Big Ad" in 2006.

Great Northern Brewing Co

Great Northern Brewing Co was Australia's top-selling beer brand in 2022. It is particularly popular in Queensland and Western Australia, offering a refreshing option on hot days.

Craft Beers

In addition to the large breweries, Australia has a thriving craft beer scene, with microbreweries popping up everywhere. Popular craft beer options include Young Henrys in Sydney, Mountain Culture, Balter Brewing, BentSpoke Brewing Co, Stone & Wood Brewing Co, and many more. The variety of craft beers means that no two people's choices are the same, and beer lovers often swap and share their unique finds.

Australian beer and food pairings

Australia's thriving craft beer scene has resulted in a wide array of flavours and styles. The art of pairing beer with food has become a popular way to elevate the dining experience. Here are some perfect pairings to try:

Australian Pale Ales and Seafood

The crisp bitterness of a pale ale is an excellent choice to cut through the richness of seafood. Whether it's grilled fish, freshly caught prawns, or oysters, the hoppy and citrusy notes of a pale ale provide a refreshing and harmonious pairing.

Amber Ales and Barbecue

Australia's barbecue culture is an integral part of the country's culinary identity. Amber ales, with their caramel notes and malty sweetness, are a natural fit for hearty barbecue dishes. The robust flavours of an amber ale complement the smoky, charred flavours of grilled meats, including juicy steaks, marinated chicken skewers, and slow-cooked ribs.

Wheat Beers and Light Fare

On a warm, sunny day, a crisp wheat beer pairs wonderfully with light, fresh meals. Australian wheat beers, often infused with fruity and spicy notes, are ideal companions for salads, seafood pasta, or grilled vegetables. The effervescence and subtle citrus undertones of the beer enhance the bright flavours of these dishes, creating a harmonious balance.

IPAs and Spicy Dishes

Australian IPAs, known for their bold hoppy profiles and intense bitterness, are perfect for those who enjoy a little heat. The carbonation and bitterness of IPAs cut through the richness of spicy dishes, enhancing their flavours. Try pairing an IPA with spicy curries, fiery wings, or zesty Mexican cuisine for a true flavour sensation.

Stouts and Dessert

Australian stouts, with their rich, roasted malt flavours and hints of chocolate and coffee, are a luxurious companion to sweet treats. Pair a stout with a chocolate fondant, creamy tiramisu, or a velvety caramel dessert. The full-bodied nature of the stout complements the richness of the dessert, creating a delightful contrast of flavours.

Porters and Chocolate

Porters, with their distinctive dark colour, toasty aroma, and rich roasted flavour, are another excellent choice for dessert pairings. The hints of chocolate and coffee in porters can enhance and complement chocolate-based desserts, such as a melting-middle fondant.

Frequently asked questions